How much will it cost?
The cost for most land surveying work is determined based on the following variables;
- Record Search
This varies by (a) the number of parcels involved; and (b) the number of past transactions, (This necessary step is complicated by the casual manner in which land transactions have been handled in the past, resulting in many vague, incomplete, and often contradictory legal descriptions and land records).
- Size and Shape of Property
An irregularly shaped parcel has more corners to monument and a longer boundary than a rectangular parcel containing the same area.
- Sectionalized Survey Work
This could require the survey of the entire section (640 acres +) in which the land being surveyed lies, regardless of the area of the parcel. In some cases, a survey of more than one section is required, depending on the location of the parcel in question in relation to the sections shown on the government plat.
- Terrain & Vegetation
A level parcel of land is easier to survey than a mountainous parcel. Interference with lines of sight and accessibility complicate fieldwork.
- Amount of Existing Evidence on the property
Existing evidence such as iron, wood, or stone monuments, old fences, and occupation lines, witness trees, etc. aid the surveyor. Their absence may compound difficulties involved in retracing boundaries.
- Local Knowledge of the Property
Someone pointing out accepted occupation lines and consummation is considerable aid to the surveyor.
- Abutter Difficulties
When neighbors are cooperative, and otherwise difficult or impossible boundary line location may be established by boundary line agreement.
- Time of Year
In the summer, foliage may present problems making survey measurements difficult. In winter, weather may slow travel to and onsite, and sometimes conceal field evidence.
- Title Company & Public Agency Requirements
Title companies may require considerably more documentation than is normally required by the average landowner.
- Record of Survey or Corner Record
This map or record is often required by state law, to protect the general public, if matters addressed by the Land Surveyors Act are encountered while surveying your property. This will cause the mapping costs to increase and requires the payment of checking and recording fees.
Due to these variables, the surveyor should furnish the client with an estimate of the survey, and provide periodic updates on the estimate, as the project proceeds.